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Donati D, Goretti C, Tedeschi R, Boccolari P, Ricci V, Farì G, Vita F, Tarallo L. Comparing endoscopic and conventional surgery techniques for carpal tunnel syndrome: A retrospective study. JPRAS Open 2024; 41:80-87. [PMID: 38911671 PMCID: PMC11192977 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) versus open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) in treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), focusing on symptom relief, functional recovery and post-operative complications. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 44 patients diagnosed with CTS, randomly assigned to undergo either ECTR (n=23) or OCTR (n=21). Parameters evaluated included post-operative pain, grip strength, functional status using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and time to return to work. Results Patients who underwent ECTR demonstrated superior functional recovery and quicker return to daily and work activities compared to those in the OCTR group. Grip strength improvement post-surgery showed no significant difference between the groups. However, ECTR patients reported significantly lower DASH scores and faster return to work, indicating better outcomes. There were fewer reports of post-operative complications and scar sensitivity in the ECTR group. Conclusion ECTR provides an effective alternative to OCTR for CTS treatment, with advantages in functional recovery speed, reduced post-operative discomfort and faster return to work. These findings support the adoption of ECTR as a preferred surgical approach for CTS, highlighting its potential to improve patient outcomes with minimal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Donati
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Goretti
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Polyclinic of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Tedeschi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Boccolari
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Ricci
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, 20121 Milano, Italy
| | - Giacomo Farì
- Department of Experimental Medicine (Di.Me.S.), University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Fabio Vita
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 1st Orthopaedics and Traumatology clinic, Bologna
| | - Luigi Tarallo
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Polyclinic of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Martikkala L, Pemmari A, Himanen SL, Mäkelä K. Median Nerve Shear Wave Elastography Is Associated With the Neurophysiological Severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2024; 43:1253-1263. [PMID: 38516753 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examines the associations between the median nerve (MN) shear wave elastography (SWE), the MN cross-sectional area (CSA), patient's symptoms, and the neurophysiological severity of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The most appropriate site to perform SWE was also tested. METHODS This prospective study comprised 86 wrists of 47 consecutive patients who volunteered for MN ultrasound after an electrodiagnostic study. The neurophysiological severity of CTS was assessed according to the results of a nerve conduction study (NCS). The MN CSA was measured at the carpal tunnel inlet (wCSA) and the forearm (fCSA). SWE was performed on the MN in a longitudinal orientation at the wrist crease (wSWE), at the forearm (fSWE), and within the carpal tunnel (tSWE). RESULTS The wCSA and wSWE correlated positively with the neurophysiological severity of CTS (r = .619, P < .001; r = .582, P < .001, respectively). The optimal cut-off values to discriminate the groups with normal NCS and with findings indicating CTS were 10.5 mm2 for the wCSA and 4.12 m/s for the wSWE. With these cut-off values, wCSA had a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 87% and wSWE a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 76%. Neither tSWE nor fSWE correlated with the neurophysiological severity of CTS or differed between NCS negative and positive groups (P = .429, P = .736, respectively). CONCLUSION Shear wave velocity in the MN at the carpal tunnel inlet increases in CTS and correlates to the neurophysiological CTS severity equivalently to CSA measured at the same site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri Martikkala
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Antti Pemmari
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Tampere University Hospital, Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sari-Leena Himanen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Tampere University Hospital, Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Tampere, Finland
| | - Katri Mäkelä
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Tampere University Hospital, Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Tampere, Finland
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Abuzinadah AR. Values and Diagnostic Accuracy of Electrodiagnostic Findings in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Based on Age, Gender, and Diabetes. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1381. [PMID: 39001271 PMCID: PMC11240809 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14131381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate cut-off values and diagnostic accuracy (DA) [sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV)] of electrodiagnostic findings for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) based on age, gender, and diabetes mellitus (DM) were not reported. METHODS In a retrospective study, we described the latency difference values and DA of comparative latency studies COLS [median to ulnar through palmar difference (palmdiff) and ring difference study (ringdiff), median to radial through thumb difference study (thumbdiff), and combined sensory index (CSI)] among non-CTS and CTS groups based on age, DM, and gender. RESULTS We included 632 patients (228 without CTS and 404 with CTS). For PPV > 90% and NPV > 50%, the best cut-offs among patients without DM, were 0.5ms, 0.8-1 ms, 1.4 ms, and 2 ms for palmdiff, thumbdiff, CSI (age < 60 years), and CSI (age > 60 years), respectively. The best cut-offs among patients with DM were 0.5 ms, 1.2 ms, 0.8 ms, 1.0-1.2 ms, 1.8 ms, 1-1.2 ms, 3.0 ms, and 3.5 ms for palmdiff (age < 50 years), palmdiff (age > 50 years), thumbdiff (age < 40 years), thumbdiff (age 40-59 years), thumbdiff (age > 60 years), CSI (age < 50 years), CSI (age 50-59 years), and CSI (age > 60 years), respectively. CONCLUSION The cut-off values of COLS to confirm CTS and their DA were different according to age and DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad R Abuzinadah
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Neuromuscular Medicine Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Neurology Division, International Medical Center, Jeddah 23214, Saudi Arabia
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Shetty KD, Basu AR, Nuckols TK. Refining quality measures for electrodiagnostic testing in suspected carpal tunnel syndrome to account for acceptable variations in practice: Expert review process. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 38867430 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Using a set of process-of-care quality measures for electrodiagnostic testing in suspected carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the research team previously documented large variations in electrodiagnostic testing practices and adherence to quality measures. This study sought to enhance the applicability and validity of the quality measures by integrating acceptable variations in testing practices. METHODS We recruited 13 expert electrodiagnostic medicine specialists from five specialty societies. The experts iteratively refined five quality measures, and then rated the validity of the refined quality measures (1-9 scale). During this process, the experts reviewed data on adherence to existing quality measures and variations in electrodiagnostic testing practices, and considered recently published quality measures from the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine. RESULTS Three quality measures (electrodiagnostic testing before surgery for CTS, temperature assessment during electrodiagnostic testing, and electrodiagnostic criteria for severe median neuropathy) underwent few refinements and were rated valid (medians 8-9). Two measures (essential components of electrodiagnosis, criteria for interpreting electrodiagnostic tests as median neuropathy) were judged valid (medians 8) after revisions. For these measures, experts' ratings on the recommended components of sensory or mixed nerve conduction studies varied: agreement among the experts about the use of sensory peak latency was greater than for onset latency or sensory velocity. DISCUSSION This study produced quality measures that provide minimum standards for electrodiagnostic testing for suspected CTS that are more comprehensive and nuanced than prior versions. Future work can assess the feasibility, reliability, and validity of these refined measures in diverse physician practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanaka D Shetty
- RAND Health Care, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Aashna R Basu
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Teryl K Nuckols
- RAND Health Care, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Favero M, Cacciavillani M, Ometto F, Lorenzin M, Cozzi G, Scagnellato L, Vio S, Doria A, Briani C, Ramonda R. Assessment of Neuropathic Pain in Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3244. [PMID: 38892955 PMCID: PMC11173097 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13113244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Erosive hand osteoarthritis (EHOA) is an aggressive form of hand osteoarthritis (OA) and a severely disabling condition. Patients affected by OA frequently lament symptoms suggestive of neuropathic pain (NP). The aim of our study was to ascertain the presence and severity of NP in patients with EHOA and correlate its presence with EHOA clinical characteristics. Methods: In this retrospective study, we included all consecutive EHOA patients with NP symptoms who underwent upper limb electroneurography (ENoG) and nerve ultrasound. The presence of NP was screened using the ID pain neuropathic pain-screening questionnaire (ID-Pain). In addition, the following NP questionnaires were also used: Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions (DN4), PainDETECT, and Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI). Moreover, patients completed the Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN) and Dreiser's algofunctional finger index questionnaires assessing EHOA disease activity. The following clinical and laboratory data were collected: age, sex, BMI, disease duration, intensity of pain (VAS 0-10), painful and swollen joints, and inflammatory indices, as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Results: Of the 34 patients studied, 24 (70.6%) presented NP to the ID-Pain questionnaire. According to DN4, 14 (41.2%) patients had NP, while using the PainDETECT questionnaire, 67.6% had NP. Patients with NP were statistically younger and had a higher VAS pain score compared to subjects without NP. The ENoG and median nerve ultrasound were normal in 81% of patients, while four patients had carpal tunnel syndrome. The ID-Pain questionnaire correlated with the number of painful joints (r = 0.48, p = 0.03) and with the AUSCAN questionnaire (r = 0.37, p = 0.05). The DN4 questionnaire correlated with PainDETECT (r = 0.58, p < 0.01). The PainDETECT questionnaire correlated with VAS pain (r = 0.49, p = 0.02), the DN4 questionnaire (r = 0.58, p < 0.01), and AUSCAN (r = 0.51, p = 0.02). The NPSI questionnaire correlated negatively with BMI (r = -0.53, p = 0.01) and positively with the PainDETECT questionnaire (r = 0.49, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Our study revealed that 32% to 70% of EHOA patients exhibited symptoms consistent with NP, with observed variability depending on the questionnaire utilized. Despite patients frequently exhibiting symptoms compatible with NP, only 19% of patients presented alterations on ENoG and ultrasound examinations confirming CTS. This suggests a probable nociplastic component for pain in patients with EHOA, which warrants tailored treatment. In the present study, NP correlated with clinical and functional indices of EHOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Favero
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
- Internal Medicine I, Cà Foncello Hospital, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Mario Cacciavillani
- Specialistic Medical Center (CEMES), EMG Laboratory, Synlab Data Medica, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | | | - Mariagrazia Lorenzin
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Giacomo Cozzi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Laura Scagnellato
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Stefania Vio
- Radiology Unit, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Andrea Doria
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology Unit, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Roberta Ramonda
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, Padova University Hospital, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.F.); (M.L.); (G.C.); (L.S.); (A.D.)
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Savage NJ, McKell JS. Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Specific Populations: Sonographic Analysis of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes or Bifid Anatomy. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2024. [PMID: 38813705 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluate diagnostic accuracy of median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) to determine severity versus presence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) across existing electrodiagnostic-based (EDX) classification systems in patients with type 2 diabetes or bifid anatomy. METHODS Retrospective analysis of cross-sectional patient data. Receiver operating characteristic analysis used to determine median nerve CSA cutoff values and associated diagnostic likelihood ratios for all consolidated and binary EDX-based classifications of CTS in patients with type 2 diabetes or bifid anatomy. Determine shifts in diagnostic probability based on established cutoff values and associated likelihood ratios. Distal CSA measured at or near carpal tunnel inlet, proximal CSA at level of pronator quadratus muscle, and delta CSA by subtracting proximal from distal. RESULTS Binary categorizations of CTS were statistically superior to consolidated categorizations of CTS severity in patients with type 2 diabetes or bifid anatomy. Binary categorizations established reasonably consistent median nerve CSA cutoff values across all EDX-based classifications examined resulting in the following for distal CSA or delta CSA: ≤10 or ≤4 mm2 to rule out and ≥11 or ≥5 mm2 to rule in CTS, respectively. These cutoff values resulted in small shifts in diagnostic probability in patients with type 2 diabetes and small to conclusive shifts in diagnostic probability in patients with bifid anatomy. CONCLUSIONS Binary categorizations to rule out or rule in CTS based on the proposed cutoff values provide the most meaningful information about shifts in diagnostic probability across all EDX-based classifications examined. The use of median nerve CSA to categorize severity of CTS is not recommended in patients with type 2 diabetes or bifid anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Savage
- Department of Physical Therapy, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - John S McKell
- Department of Physical Therapy, McKell Therapy Group, LLC, Provo, Utah, USA
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Savage NJ, McKell JS. Sonographic Measurement of Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area to Determine Severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Cautionary Tale. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2024. [PMID: 38778784 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) to determine the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) vs the presence of CTS across existing electrodiagnostic-based (EDX) classification systems. METHODS Retrospective analysis of cross-sectional patient data. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to determine CSA cutoff values and associated diagnostic likelihood ratios for all consolidated and binary EDX-based classifications of CTS severity. Identification of CSA cutoff values associated with likelihood ratios capable of achieving conclusive (but at least moderate) shifts in diagnostic probability. RESULTS Binary categorizations of CTS (ie, "Normal" vs "Absent") were statistically superior to consolidated categorizations of CTS severity (ie, "Normal," "Mild," "Moderate," or "Severe"). Binary categorizations established consistent CSA cutoff values across all EDX-based classifications examined and achieved conclusive shifts in diagnostic probability based on the following values of distal CSA or delta CSA: <7 or <1 mm2 to rule out and >13 or >7 mm2 to rule in CTS, respectively. Additionally, the following values of distal CSA and delta CSA may be used in certain circumstances because they produce only small shifts in diagnostic probability: ≤10 or ≤3 mm2 to rule out and ≥11 or ≥4 mm2 to rule in CTS, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Using median nerve CSA to categorize the severity of CTS is not recommended based on lack of consistent and meaningful shifts in diagnostic probability. Rather, binary categorizations to rule out or rule in CTS based on the proposed CSA cutoff values consistently provided conclusive shifts in diagnostic probability across all EDX-based classifications examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Savage
- Department of Physical Therapy, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - John S McKell
- Department of Physical Therapy, McKell Therapy Group, LLC, Orem, Utah, USA
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Kodama A, Kurumadani H, Tanaka T, Shinomiya R, Sunagawa T, Adachi N. Association between three-dimensional motion analysis of the thumb and clinical parameters in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2024; 49:452-457. [PMID: 37873759 DOI: 10.1177/17531934231203163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
We analysed the relationship between motor dysfunction of the thumb and the clinical parameters of carpal tunnel syndrome using three-dimensional motion analysis. This single-centred, prospective study included 65 hands in 51 patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome and 30 healthy hands. Three-dimensional thumb kinematics were acquired using a motion capture system with a retroreflective surface-based marker method. The trajectory area of thumb tip, adduction and abduction of the trapeziometacarpal joints and metacarpophalangeal joints were correlated with the clinical parameters. There was no significant correlation between the results of motion analysis values and patient-reported outcomes measures. Thumb movement disorder associated with carpal tunnel syndrome affected specific activities of daily living based on the pinching movements, such as 'writing' and 'buttoning clothes' among the patient-reported outcome measure items.Level of evidence: III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Kodama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kurumadani
- Laboratory of Analysis and Control of Upper Extremity Function, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Teruyasu Tanaka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Rikuo Shinomiya
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Toru Sunagawa
- Laboratory of Analysis and Control of Upper Extremity Function, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Nobuo Adachi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Saggar SK, Thaman RG, Mohan G, Kumar D. Mapping Neurophysiological Patterns in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Correlations With Tinel's and Phalen's Signs. Cureus 2024; 16:e58168. [PMID: 38741883 PMCID: PMC11089430 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to observe the neurophysiological severity grading of carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS) using nerve conduction studies (NCSs) and the correlation between Tinel's and Phalen's signs. Methodology In this cross-sectional study, 240 patients of CTS were enrolled. NCSs were conducted in 480 hands. Various variables such as distal latency, amplitude, and nerve conduction velocity in both sensory and motor median nerves were recorded. The provocative tests capable of reproducing patients' symptoms such as Phalen's test and Tinel's test were performed on all 480 hands studied. Results Neurophysiological variables were affected in 449 out of 480 hands. Tinel's sign was observed in 59% of cases (265 hands) while Phalen's sign was positive in 37.2% (167 hands) of cases. Severity grading of CTS based on neurophysiological variables resulted in Grade I (mild) in 202 hands, Grade II (mild to moderate) in 56 hands, Grade III (moderate) in 39 hands, and Grade IV (severe) in 152 hands. Provocative tests (Tinel's and Phalen's) used for the diagnosis of CTS were positive in 68 hands (36.66%) and 26 hands (12.8%), respectively, in mild Grade I. However, as the CTS severity grade increased, the provocative test success rate also increased simultaneously. In severe Grade IV CTS, Tinel's and Phalen's tests were positive in 134 (88.1%) hands and 94 (61.8%) hands, respectively. Conclusions This study underscores the unreliability of Tinel's and Phalen's signs as screening methods for CTS severity. With moderate sensitivity and specificity, NCSs are deemed essential for confirming CTS diagnosis and assessing severity, especially in mild cases that might be mistakenly perceived as normal hands by consultants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev K Saggar
- Physiology, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, IND
| | - Richa G Thaman
- Physiology, Medical Education, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, IND
| | - Gurinder Mohan
- General Medicine, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, IND
| | - Dinesh Kumar
- Neurology, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, IND
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Jung DH, Lee SE, Park D, Lee JW. A revised approach for electrodiagnosis-based severity classification in carpal tunnel syndrome. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2024:BMR230275. [PMID: 38578879 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-230275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An electrodiagnostic evaluation is conducted to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and evaluate its severity. OBJECTIVE This study proposes a revised approach for classifying the severity of electrophysiological findings for patients with CTS. METHODS This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients with CTS confirmed through electrodiagnostic evaluations. Based on the Stevens' classification, the patients were divided into three groups (mild/moderate/severe). A new intermediate group was defined to identify patients with normal motor nerve conduction studies and abnormal electromyographic results. CTS pain was evaluated using a numeric rate scale. Physical examinations and sonographic evaluation were performed to detect anatomical abnormalities. RESULTS Overall, 1,069 CTS hands of 850 CTS patients were included. The mean age was 57.9 ± 10.8 years, and 336 (39.5%) were men. There were 522 (48.8%) mild cases; 281 (26.3%) moderate cases; and 266 (24.9%) severe cases. In the severe group, 49 cases were reclassified into the intermediate group. The median cross-sectional area in the intermediate group significantly differed from that in the severe group. However, the pain score significantly differed from that of the moderate group. CONCLUSION The intermediate CTS group showed clinical features that were intermediate to those of the moderate and severe CTS groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Hun Jung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Sang-Eok Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pohang Stroke and Spine Hospital, Pohang, Korea
| | - Dougho Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pohang Stroke and Spine Hospital, Pohang, Korea
- Department of Medical Science and Engineering, School of Convergence Science and Technology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Korea
| | - Jang Woo Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
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Zainab J, Manzoor N, Bashir MS, Noor R, Ikram M. Effects of kinesio taping with and without active release technique in carpal tunnel syndrome. HAND SURGERY & REHABILITATION 2024; 43:101633. [PMID: 38190964 DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2024.101633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kinesio taping is used as a conservative treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome and the active release technique is also effective. OBJECTIVE The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of kinesio taping with and without the active release technique on pain, grip strength, functional disability and range of motion in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. METHODS It was a randomized controlled trial. Thirty-two patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were randomly allocated to two groups: Group A received kinesio taping with the active release technique for 4 weeks (3 days/week); Group B received kinesio taping alone for 4 weeks (5 days/week). Outcome measures were the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire, a numeric pain rating scale, goniometry and hand-held dynamometry. SPSS software, version 25, was used for data analysis. RESULTS Normal distribution was assessed on the Shapiro-Wilk test and parametric tests were applied. Independent t-test results showed that patients who received kinesio taping with the active release technique showed significantly greater improvement (p < 0.05) in pain, functional status and range of motion than the group that received kinesio taping alone. Within-group analysis (paired t-test) showed that both groups significantly improved (p < 0.05) in all outcome measures. CONCLUSION Kinesio taping with the active release technique procured significantly greater improvement in pain, range of motion and functional disability than kinesio taping alone. CLINICALTRIALS gov registration number: 789.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janisar Zainab
- Faculty of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nosheen Manzoor
- School of Health Sciences, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Rabiya Noor
- Faculty of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mehwish Ikram
- Faculty of Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore, Pakistan.
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Vázquez-Sánchez F, Gómez-Menéndez AI, López-Veloso M, Calvo-Simal S, Lloria-Gil MC, González-Santos J, Muñoz-Alcaraz MN, Jiménez-Vilchez AJ, González-Bernal JJ, García-López B. A Proposal for Neurography Referral in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Based on Clinical Symptoms and Demographic Variables of 797 Patients. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:297. [PMID: 38337813 PMCID: PMC10855857 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14030297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The clinical manifestation of median nerve entrapment at the carpal tunnel level is known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Electroneurography (ENG) is considered the gold standard in CTS evaluation. We conducted a retrospective study and analyzed some clinical and demographic variables, relating them to the degree of neuropathy using ENG, to better understand the role of ENG in this very common disease. We studied 816 patients referred to our service for neurographic evaluation. Their symptoms were classified as compatible with CTS (cCTS) (n = 646) and atypical for CTS (aCTS) (n = 170). A blind ENG was performed on 797 patients. Patient characteristics were coded as variables and analyzed to study whether they could predict neuropathy severity (sensory and motor involvement or grade ≥ 3 in our classification). We found a correlation between typical symptomatology, age over 50 years, male gender, positivity of Phalen's maneuver and Tinel's sign, and a neuropathy grade ≥ 3. We also found a correlation with CTS in the contralateral hand if the other hand showed neuropathy, despite the lack of symptoms in this hand. We propose a practical algorithm for ENG referral based on clinical symptoms, demographic factors, and neurophysiological variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Vázquez-Sánchez
- Clinical Neurophysiology Service, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain; (F.V.-S.); (A.I.G.-M.); (M.C.L.-G.)
| | - Ana Isabel Gómez-Menéndez
- Clinical Neurophysiology Service, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain; (F.V.-S.); (A.I.G.-M.); (M.C.L.-G.)
| | - María López-Veloso
- Internal Medicine Department, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain;
| | - Sara Calvo-Simal
- Research Unit, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain;
| | - María Carmen Lloria-Gil
- Clinical Neurophysiology Service, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain; (F.V.-S.); (A.I.G.-M.); (M.C.L.-G.)
| | | | - María Nieves Muñoz-Alcaraz
- Interlevel Clinical Management Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, 14011 Cordoba, Spain;
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | | | | | - Beatriz García-López
- Clinical Neurophysiology Service, University Hospital of Burgos, 09006 Burgos, Spain; (F.V.-S.); (A.I.G.-M.); (M.C.L.-G.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain;
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Huang CY, Lai CY, Reeves KD, Lam KHS, Li TY, Cheng CI, Wu YT. Volume Effect of Nerve Hydrodissection for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Prospective, Randomized, and Single-Blind Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2024; 43:161-169. [PMID: 37873682 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study compared ultrasound-guided nerve hydrodissection (HD) outcomes using two commonly used injectate volumes (10 and 5 mL) of normal saline to explore if there is a volume effect of HD for patients with moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). METHODS Twenty-four participants were randomly assigned to treatment with HD using ultrasound-guidance and either 10 mL or 5 mL of normal saline (HD-10 and HD-5 groups respectively). Our primary outcome measures were the change scores of the two subscales of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire: The Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Scale (FSS). We conducted a one-way repeated analysis of variance for 3 time points (4, 12, and 24 weeks) for both SSS and FSS, respectively, for change scores from time 0, and percentage change from time 0. RESULTS All participants (n = 12 per group) completed the study. From 0 to 24 weeks the HD-10 group outperformed the HD-5 group for improvement in SSS (median ± IQR; -0.8 ± 0.4 versus -0.5 ± 0.5; P = .024) and FSS scores (mean ± SD; -0.8 ± 0.2 versus -0.5 ± 0.5; P = .011). The HD-10 group improvement in FSS subtest significantly exceeded the MCID percentage-change-based threshold of 27% (34%; P = .039). CONCLUSIONS Despite the limitations of small study size, a largely inert injectate, and a single injection approach, these findings in favor of the 10 mL group suggest that the volume used for ultrasound-guided HD in moderate CTS matters, and a higher volume is more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yao Huang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Centers, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ying Lai
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Centers, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - King Hei Stanley Lam
- The Hong Kong Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Hong Kong
- Department of Family Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Department of Family Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Center for Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ying Li
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Centers, Taipei, Taiwan
- Integrated Pain Management Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-I Cheng
- Department of Statistics, Actuarial and Data Science, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Yung-Tsan Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Centers, Taipei, Taiwan
- Integrated Pain Management Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Research and Development, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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14
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Rubin DI, Lamb CJ. The role of electrodiagnosis in focal neuropathies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 201:43-59. [PMID: 38697746 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-90108-6.00010-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Electrodiagnostic (EDX) testing plays an important role in confirming a mononeuropathy, localizing the site of nerve injury, defining the pathophysiology, and assessing the severity and prognosis. The combination of nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle electromyography findings provides the necessary information to fully assess a nerve. The pattern of NCS abnormalities reflects the underlying pathophysiology, with focal slowing or conduction block in neuropraxic injuries and reduced amplitudes in axonotmetic injuries. Needle electromyography findings, including spontaneous activity and voluntary motor unit potential changes, complement the NCS findings and further characterize chronicity and degree of axon loss and reinnervation. EDX is used as an objective marker to follow the progression of a mononeuropathy over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon I Rubin
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.
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15
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Matur Z, Zengin T, Bolu NE, Oge AE. Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms Among Young Dentists. Cureus 2023; 15:e43358. [PMID: 37700967 PMCID: PMC10493822 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Although age is a risk factor, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can also affect younger individuals, particularly those involved in activities or occupations that require repetitive hand movements, forceful gripping, or prolonged wrist flexion/extension. This case-control study aimed to examine the prevalence of CTS symptoms and frequent object dropping among a group of young dentists who are exposed to CTS risk factors. Additionally, other reported risk factors for CTS, such as sex, obesity, and square wrist sign, were also investigated. Methods A total of 74 dentists (48 women, mean age 28.5 years), who are working at Istanbul Faculty of Dentistry, the largest dental school in Istanbul, which is the biggest city in Turkey, were included in the study. Additionally, 61 age- and sex-matched controls (38 women, mean age 27.9 years) were also recruited. The Edinburgh Hand Preference Questionnaire, Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ), a questionnaire for object dropping and occupational hand usage, anthropometric measurements of the hands, clinical neurologic examination, and electromyography intended for the detection of CTS were performed. Results The dentists had a higher total weekly hand usage duration compared to the controls (66.3 vs 44.8 hours, p<0.001). BCTQ scores and the frequency of object dropping were also significantly higher in dentists compared to controls (respective p values: 0.011, 0.003). Positive correlations were found between BCTQ scores, hand usage durations, and object dropping (respective p values: 0.001, <0.001). BCTQ scores were higher in women than in men (p=0.027). Electrophysiologic evidence of CTS was found in one dentist. Conclusions Symptoms of CTS may manifest in individuals at a younger age than predicted, primarily influenced by their occupation and the duration of hand usage. Dentists, in particular, report a higher incidence of complaints related to object dropping, which can be attributed to their frequent use of specialized tools and engagement in delicate tasks, resulting in heightened awareness. However, it can also potentially serve as an indicator of CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeliha Matur
- Department of Neurology, Bezmialem Vakif University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Tunahan Zengin
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, TUR
- Department of Internal Medicine, Trakya University, Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, TUR
| | - Naci Emre Bolu
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, TUR
- Department of Neurology, Maltepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, TUR
| | - Ali Emre Oge
- Departments of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiolgy, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, TUR
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Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Fuensalida-Novo S, Nijs J, Basson A, Plaza-Manzano G, Valera-Calero JA, Arendt-Nielsen L, de-la-Llave-Rincón AI. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Neuropathic Pain Associated or Not with a Nociplastic Condition. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1744. [PMID: 37371839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has been traditionally classified as primarily a neuropathic condition with or without pain. Precision medicine refers to an evidence-based method of grouping patients based on their susceptibility to biology, prognosis of a particular disease, or in their response to a specific treatment, and tailoring specific treatments accordingly. In 2021, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) proposed a grading system for classifying patients into nociceptive, neuropathic, or nociplastic phenotypes. This position paper presents data supporting the possibility of subgrouping individuals with specific CTS related-pain into nociceptive, neuropathic, nociplastic or mixed-type phenotypes. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a neuropathic condition but can also be comorbid with a nociplastic pain condition. The presence of extra-median symptoms and the development of facilitated pain processing seem to be signs suggesting that specific CTS cases can be classified as the nociplastic pain phenotype. The clinical responses of therapeutic approaches for the management of CTS are inconclusive. Accordingly, the ability to identify the predominant pain phenotype in patients with CTS could likely be problematic for producing efficient treatment outcomes. In fact, the presence of a nociplastic or mixed-type pain phenotype would explain the lack of clinical effect of treatment interventions targeting the carpal tunnel area selectively. We propose a clinical decision tree by using the 2021 IASP classification criteria for identifying the predominant pain phenotype in people with CTS-related pain, albeit CTS being a priori a neuropathic pain condition. The identification of a nociplastic-associated condition requires a more nuanced multimodal treatment approach to achieve better treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Spain
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Stella Fuensalida-Novo
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Jo Nijs
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Chronic Pain Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Medicine and Physiotherapy, University Hospital Brussels, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Unit of Physiotherapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annalie Basson
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of the Witwatersrand, Office 23, Khanya Block-West, 7 York Road, Parktown 2193, South Africa
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo InPhysio, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A Valera-Calero
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo InPhysio, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lars Arendt-Nielsen
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mech-Sense, Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center North Denmark, Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ana I de-la-Llave-Rincón
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Spain
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Elwakil W. Correlation between delayed carpal tunnel syndrome and carpal malalignment after distal radial fracture. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:365. [PMID: 37193988 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03844-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delayed carpal tunnel syndrome after Colles' fracture is a common complication particularly following conservative treatment. The aim of the study was to verify the correlation of different radiological parameters of carpal alignment and the development as well as the severity of DCTS in elderly female patients within 6 months of distal radial fracture (DRF). METHODS This is a retrospective case-control study that included 60 female patients with DRF within 6 months treated conservatively (30 patients with signs and symptoms suggestive of DCTS and 30 asymptomatic patients as a control group). Electrophysiological evaluation was done for all the participants, as well as radiological assessment to measure parameters of carpal alignment mainly radiocapitate distance (RCD), volar prominence height (VPH) and volar tilt (VT). RESULTS There was a statistical significant difference between both groups regarding the radiological parameters of carpal alignment (The mean values of RCD, VT and VPH were - 11.48 mm, - 20.68° angle, and 2.24 mm respectively in the symptomatic group). A strong correlation was found between decrease in the parameters of carpal alignment and the severity of DCTS. Logistic regression analysis showed that VT is strongly involved in the development of DCTS. The threshold value of the VT was - 20.2° angle (sensitivity 0.83; specificity 0.9; odds ratio 45; 95% CI 0.894-0.999; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Anatomical alteration of the carpal tunnel after DRF with dorsal displacement of the carpal bones contribute to the development of DCTS. Decreasing VT and VPH and RCD are the most significant independent predictors for the development of DCTS in conservatively managed DRF. Protocol ID: 0306060.
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Grönfors H, Himanen SL, Martikkala L, Kallio M, Mäkelä K. Median nerve ultrasound cross sectional area and wrist-to-forearm ratio in relation to carpal tunnel syndrome related axonal damage and patient age. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2023; 8:81-87. [PMID: 37215684 PMCID: PMC10196766 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Primary objective was to retrospectively examine the effects of patient age and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) related axon loss on median nerve (MN) high resolution ultrasound (HRUS) in younger and older patients. HRUS parameters evaluated in this study were MN cross sectional area at the wrist (CSA) and wrist-to-forearm ratio (WFR). Methods The material comprised 467 wrists of 329 patients. The patients were categorized into younger (<65 years) and older (≥65 years) groups. Patients with moderate to extreme CTS were included in the study. Axon loss of the MN was assessed by needle EMG and graded by the interference pattern (IP) density. The association between axon loss and CSA and WFR was studied. Results The older patients had smaller mean CSA and WFR values compared to the younger patients. CSA correlated positively to the CTS severity only in the younger group. However, WFR correlated positively to CTS severity in both groups. In both age groups, CSA and WFR correlated positively with IP reduction. Conclusions Our study complemented recent findings on the effects of patient age on the CSA of the MN. However, although the MN CSA did not correlate with the CTS severity in older patients, the CSA increased in respect to the amount of axon loss. Also, as a new result, we presented the positive association of WFR with CTS severity among older patients. Significance Our study supports the recently speculated need for different MN CSA and WFR cut-off values for younger and older patients in assessing the severity of CTS. With older patients, WFR may be a more reliable parameter to assess the CTS severity than the CSA. CTS related axonal damage of the MN is associated to additional nerve enlargement at the carpal tunnel intel site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri Grönfors
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Sari-Leena Himanen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520 Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Tampere University Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre and Hospital Pharmacy, Elämänaukio 2, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Lauri Martikkala
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Mika Kallio
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Oulu University Hospital, Kajaanintie 50, 90220, PL 10, 90029 OYS, Finland
- Research Unit of Medical Imaging, Physics and Technology; University of Oulu, Kajaanintie 50, 90220; PL 10, 90029 OYS, Finland
| | - Katri Mäkelä
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Tampere University Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre and Hospital Pharmacy, Elämänaukio 2, 33520 Tampere, Finland
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Shin KJ, Yi J, Hahn S. Shear-wave elastography evaluation of thenar muscle in carpal tunnel syndrome. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:510-517. [PMID: 36201602 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aim to evaluate the shear wave velocity (SWV) of the thenar muscle as an adjunct diagnostic tool for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). METHODS Ninety-two wrists with CTS and 30 control wrists without CTS underwent ultrasonographic evaluation of thenar muscle and median nerve including shear-wave elastography. Cross sectional area (CSA) of medial nerve and SWV of thenar muscle and median nerve were evaluated. CTS patients were assessed for Boston CTS, Padua CTS, modified Hirani grading scores, and nerve conduction study (NCS). SWVs, CSA, and NCS parameters were compared between two groups. RESULTS The SWVs of thenar muscle and median nerve (p < 0.001, respectively), and CSA of median nerve (p < 0.001) were more significantly greater in patients with CTS than in controls. The SWV of median nerve was moderately correlated with CSA of median nerve (r = 0.35, p < 0.001) and modified Hirani CTS score (r = 0.35, p < 0.001). The SWV of thenar muscle was inversely correlated with modified Hirani CTS score (r = -0.21, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION The SWV of thenar muscle and median nerve of CTS were significantly increased compared to that of control, and significantly negatively correlated with NCS parameters (modified Hirani CTS score). SWVs may be used as an adjunct diagnostic tool for CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyong Jin Shin
- Department of Neurology, Haeundae-Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, South Korea
| | - Jisook Yi
- Department of Radiology, Haeundae-Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, South Korea
| | - Seok Hahn
- Department of Radiology, Haeundae-Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, South Korea
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Salvalaggio A, Cacciavillani M, Tiengo C, Cipriani A, Frizziero L, Fedrigo M, Rizzo S, Angelini A, Gasparotti R, Briani C. Multimodal evaluation of carpal tunnel syndrome in a pre-symptomatic TTR mutation carrier. J Neurol Sci 2023; 448:120596. [PMID: 36870789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Salvalaggio
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy; Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padova, Italy
| | | | - C Tiengo
- Plastic Surgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| | - A Cipriani
- Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Italy
| | - L Frizziero
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
| | - M Fedrigo
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - S Rizzo
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - A Angelini
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Pathology Unit, University of Padova, Italy
| | - R Gasparotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - C Briani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy.
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Karjalainen TV, Lusa V, Page MJ, O'Connor D, Massy-Westropp N, Peters SE. Splinting for carpal tunnel syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 2:CD010003. [PMID: 36848651 PMCID: PMC9969978 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010003.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a compression neuropathy of the median nerve causing pain and numbness and tingling typically in the thumb, index and middle finger. It sometimes results in muscle wasting, diminished sensitivity and loss of dexterity. Splinting the wrist (with or without the hand) using an orthosis is usually offered to people with mild-to-moderate findings, but its effectiveness remains unclear. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of splinting for people with CTS. SEARCH METHODS On 12 December 2021, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, AMED, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP with no limitations. We checked the reference lists of included studies and relevant systematic reviews for studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised trials were included if the effect of splinting could be isolated from other treatment modalities. The comparisons included splinting versus no active treatment (or placebo), splinting versus another disease-modifying non-surgical treatment, and comparisons of different splint-wearing regimens. We excluded studies comparing splinting with surgery or one splint design with another. We excluded participants if they had previously undergone surgical release. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Review authors independently selected trials for inclusion, extracted data, assessed study risk of bias and the certainty in the body of evidence for primary outcomes using the GRADE approach, according to standard Cochrane methodology. MAIN RESULTS We included 29 trials randomising 1937 adults with CTS. The trials ranged from 21 to 234 participants, with mean ages between 42 and 60 years. The mean duration of CTS symptoms was seven weeks to five years. Eight studies with 523 hands compared splinting with no active intervention (no treatment, sham-kinesiology tape or sham-laser); 20 studies compared splinting (or splinting delivered along with another non-surgical intervention) with another non-surgical intervention; and three studies compared different splinting regimens (e.g. night-time only versus full time). Trials were generally at high risk of bias for one or more domains, including lack of blinding (all included studies) and lack of information about randomisation or allocation concealment in 23 studies. For the primary comparison, splinting compared to no active treatment, splinting may provide little or no benefits in symptoms in the short term (< 3 months). The mean Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) (scale 1 to 5, higher is worse; minimal clinically important difference (MCID) 1 point) was 0.37 points better with splint (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82 better to 0.08 worse; 6 studies, 306 participants; low-certainty evidence) compared with no active treatment. Removing studies with high or unclear risk of bias due to lack of randomisation or allocation concealment supported our conclusion of no important effect (mean difference (MD) 0.01 points worse with splint; 95% CI 0.20 better to 0.22 worse; 3 studies, 124 participants). In the long term (> 3 months), we are uncertain about the effect of splinting on symptoms (mean BCTQ SSS 0.64 better with splinting; 95% CI 1.2 better to 0.08 better; 2 studies, 144 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Splinting probably does not improve hand function in the short term and may not improve hand function in the long term. In the short term, the mean BCTQ Functional Status Scale (FSS) (1 to 5, higher is worse; MCID 0.7 points) was 0.24 points better (95% CI 0.44 better to 0.03 better; 6 studies, 306 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) with splinting compared with no active treatment. In the long term, the mean BCTQ FSS was 0.25 points better (95% CI 0.68 better to 0.18 worse; 1 study, 34 participants; low-certainty evidence) with splinting compared with no active treatment. Night-time splinting may result in a higher rate of overall improvement in the short term (risk ratio (RR) 3.86, 95% CI 2.29 to 6.51; 1 study, 80 participants; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 2, 95% CI 2 to 2; low-certainty evidence). We are uncertain if splinting decreases referral to surgery, RR 0.47 (95% CI 0.14 to 1.58; 3 studies, 243 participants; very low-certainty evidence). None of the trials reported health-related quality of life. Low-certainty evidence from one study suggests that splinting may have a higher rate of adverse events, which were transient, but the 95% CIs included no effect. Seven of 40 participants (18%) reported adverse effects in the splinting group and 0 of 40 participants (0%) in the no active treatment group (RR 15.0, 95% CI 0.89 to 254.13; 1 study, 80 participants). There was low- to moderate-certainty evidence for the other comparisons: splinting may not provide additional benefits in symptoms or hand function when given together with corticosteroid injection (moderate-certainty evidence) or with rehabilitation (low-certainty evidence); nor when compared with corticosteroid (injection or oral; low certainty), exercises (low certainty), kinesiology taping (low certainty), rigid taping (low certainty), platelet-rich plasma (moderate certainty), or extracorporeal shock wave treatment (moderate certainty). Splinting for 12 weeks may not be better than six weeks, but six months of splinting may be better than six weeks of splinting in improving symptoms and function (low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient evidence to conclude whether splinting benefits people with CTS. Limited evidence does not exclude small improvements in CTS symptoms and hand function, but they may not be clinically important, and the clinical relevance of small differences with splinting is unclear. Low-certainty evidence suggests that people may have a greater chance of experiencing overall improvement with night-time splints than no treatment. As splinting is a relatively inexpensive intervention with no plausible long-term harms, small effects could justify its use, particularly when patients are not interested in having surgery or injections. It is unclear if a splint is optimally worn full time or at night-time only and whether long-term use is better than short-term use, but low-certainty evidence suggests that the benefits may manifest in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teemu V Karjalainen
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Central Finland Healthcare District, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Monash-Cabrini Department of Musculoskeletal Health and Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Victoria, 3144, Australia
| | - Vieda Lusa
- Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Central Finland Healthcare District, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Matthew J Page
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Denise O'Connor
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | | | - Susan E Peters
- Center for Work, Health, and Well-being, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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22
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Schulze DG, Nilsen KB, Clemm T, Grotle M, Zwart JA, Ulvestad B, Nordby KC. Influence of ergonomic factors on peripheral neuropathy under HAV exposure. Occup Med (Lond) 2023; 73:13-18. [PMID: 36480225 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqac118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). It is unclear how ergonomic factors influence the relationship between HAV exposure and CTS and UNE. AIMS We aimed to assess the relationship between cumulative HAV exposure and CTS and UNE in workers exposed to HAV from two tools with different ergonomic profiles. METHODS We performed nerve conduction studies (NCSs) of the sensory and motor median and ulnar nerves and recorded symptoms indicating CTS and UNE in workers exposed to HAV from impact wrenches or from rock drills. Exposure was measured as cumulative lifetime exposure. We used linear regression adjusted for age and body mass index to assess linear relationships. RESULTS Sixty-five workers participated (33 rock drill and 32 impact wrench operators). We found inverse linear associations between cumulative HAV exposure and median nerve sensory conduction velocity in impact wrench operators and ulnar nerve motor conduction velocity in rock drill operators (beta of 0.63 and 0.75). Based on NCS findings and symptoms, seven impact wrench operators had CTS and one UNE, and four rock drill operators had CTS and six UNE. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that ergonomic factors influence the development of CTS and UNE under HAV exposure. The ergonomic profile seems to influence which type of neuropathy workers exposed to HAV will develop. Design of occupational exposure guidelines and future studies should be based on ergonomic profile and exposure characteristics for different tools and not merely HAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Schulze
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0316 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - K B Nilsen
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - T Clemm
- National Institute of Occupational Health, 0304 Oslo, Norway
| | - M Grotle
- Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Oslo Metropolitan University, 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - J A Zwart
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0316 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - B Ulvestad
- National Institute of Occupational Health, 0304 Oslo, Norway
| | - K C Nordby
- National Institute of Occupational Health, 0304 Oslo, Norway
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23
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Sernik RA, Pereira RFB, Cerri GG, Damasceno RS, Bastos BB, Leão RV. Shear wave elastography is a valuable tool for diagnosing and grading carpal tunnel syndrome. Skeletal Radiol 2023; 52:67-72. [PMID: 35920932 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-022-04143-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify the shear velocity and stiffness of the median nerve (MN) with shear wave elastography (SWE) at the carpal tunnel entrance and determine whether SWE is useful for diagnosing and staging carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). MATERIALS AND METHODS The study included 58 patients (79 wrists) with clinical and electroneuromyographic diagnoses of CTS and 55 healthy controls (63 wrists). MN shear velocity and stiffness were measured by SWE on the axial plane in both groups. The differences between CTS patients and controls and between different grades of CTS based on electrodiagnostic tests were studied using Student's t test and ANOVA with ROC analysis. RESULTS The mean MN shear velocity and stiffness were significantly greater in CTS patients (2.5 ± 0.37 m/s and 19.4 ± 5.8 kPa) than in controls (1.91 ± 0.24 m/s and 11.1 ± 3.0 kPa) (p < 0.001) and greater in the severe CTS group (2.69 ± 0.39 m/s and 22.4 ± 7.1 kPa) than in the mild CTS group (2.37 ± 0.35 m/s and 17.3 ± 4,8 kPa). The cutoff value for the shear velocity was 2.13 m/s, with 86% and 82% sensitivity and specificity, respectively, and the cutoff value for stiffness was 13.6 kPa, with 87% and 82% sensitivity and specificity. CONCLUSION MN shear velocity and stiffness are significantly higher in CTS patients. SWE can be used to diagnose CTS and distinguish between patients with mild and severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Antonio Sernik
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, R. Adma Jafet, 91, São Paulo, 01308-050, Brazil
| | | | - Giovanni Guido Cerri
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, R. Adma Jafet, 91, São Paulo, 01308-050, Brazil
| | | | - Breno Braga Bastos
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, R. Adma Jafet, 91, São Paulo, 01308-050, Brazil
| | - Renata Vidal Leão
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, R. Adma Jafet, 91, São Paulo, 01308-050, Brazil.
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24
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Alloisio S, Mennella C, Viti F, Novellino A, Tognon S. Innovative Quantitative Assessment of Hand Function in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Hand (N Y) 2023; 18:77S-83S. [PMID: 35189723 PMCID: PMC9896292 DOI: 10.1177/15589447221075675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) compromises fine sensorimotor function during activities of daily living and affects a large number of individuals with high burden costs for society. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively characterize fine movement skills in CTS patients preoperatively and at 1 month postoperatively by means of a sensor-engineered glove, in order to provide new insights for evaluative and finally therapeutic purposes. METHODS Forty-one CTS patients and 41 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC) were analyzed by adopting the engineered glove Hand Test System (HTS), which previously demonstrated its reliability and sensitivity to detect hands dysfunction in several neurological diseases. A sub-group of 11 CTS subjects was re-tested 1 month after surgery. Three parameters-touch duration (TD), inter-tapping interval (ITI), and movement rate (MR)-were considered to characterize hand function. RESULTS The affected hand of CTS patients generally showed worst finger opposition performances than HC. Comparing the dominant hand, all parameters were able to significantly discriminate CTS patients from HC. Considering the nondominant hand, the best performing parameter in discriminating CTS from HC was TD. The follow-up assessment at 1 month after surgery showed that considered parameters were able to monitor patients' recovery. In particular, the TD parameter recorded at the 3 different assigned task modalities resulted significantly enhanced. CONCLUSIONS Results of this pilot study proved the validity of the parameters obtained through the sensor-engineered glove to assess objectively hand functional status and surgical outcomes in CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Alloisio
- Institute of Biophysics, National
Research Council, Genova, Italy
- ETT S.p.A., Genova, Italy
| | - Ciro Mennella
- Institute of Biophysics, National
Research Council, Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Viti
- Institute of Biophysics, National
Research Council, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Tognon
- Hand Surgery Unit of Cittadella
Socio-Sanitaria di Cavarzere, Cavarzere, Italy
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25
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Sousa RL, Moraes VYD, Zobiole AF, Nakachima LR, Belloti JC. Diagnostic criteria and outcome measures in randomized clinical trials on carpal tunnel syndrome: a systematic review. SAO PAULO MED J 2023; 141:e2022086. [PMID: 37075455 PMCID: PMC10109546 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2022.0086.07022023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnostic criteria for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) lack uniformity. Moreover, because CTS is a syndrome, there is no consensus as to which signs, symptoms, clinical and complementary tests are more reproducible and accurate for use in clinical research. This heterogeneity is reflected in clinical practice. Thus, establishing effective and comparable care protocols is difficult. OBJECTIVE To identify the diagnostic criteria and outcome measures used in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on CTS. DESING AND SETTING Systematic review of randomized clinical trials carried out at the Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase databases for RCTs with surgical intervention for CTS published between 2006 and 2019. Two investigators independently extracted relevant data on diagnosis and outcomes used in these studies. RESULTS We identified 582 studies and 35 were systematically reviewed. The symptoms, paresthesia in the median nerve territory, nocturnal paresthesia, and special tests were the most widely used clinical diagnostic criteria. The most frequently assessed outcomes were symptoms of paresthesia in the median nerve territory and nocturnal paresthesia. CONCLUSION The diagnostic criteria and outcome measures used in RCTs about CTS are heterogeneous, rendering comparison of studies difficult. Most studies use unstructured clinical criteria associated with ENMG for diagnosis. The Boston Questionnaire is the most frequently used main instrument to measure outcomes. REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42020150965- https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=150965).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Luz Sousa
- MD. Hand Surgeon and Master's Student, Discipline of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Vinicius Ynoe de Moraes
- MD, PhD. Hand Surgeon, Discipline of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil; and Hand Surgeon, Hand Surgery Service, Hospital Alvorada Moema, United Health, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Alexandre Figueiredo Zobiole
- MD. Orthopedist and Fellow of shoulder and elbow at the Sports Traumatology Center, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Luis Renato Nakachima
- MD, MSc, PhD. Adjunct Professor, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology. Discipline of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - João Carlos Belloti
- MD, MSc, PhD. Adjunct Professor, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Discipline of Hand and Upper Limb Surgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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26
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Akcay S, Koskderelioglu A, Ince B, Elif Saka F, Eskut N, Goksel Karatepe A. Is the left/right judgment task performance altered in unilateral carpal tunnel syndrome: And associated with symptom severity? Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 62:102641. [PMID: 35961062 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left/right judgment task performance (LRJT) is impaired in severe neuropathic pain conditions. However, comparison of LRJT performance in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) with a control group with similar cognitive functions has not been investigated. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to compare the LRJT performance of CTS patients with healthy controls and the unaffected side. METHODS Seventy-five CTS patients with dominant, right-hand involvement and 75 control subjects were included in the study. The Recognize® tablet application was used for LRJT performance. Tactile acuity (Two-point discrimination) and handgrip strength; pain severity (Visual Analog Scale) and neuropathic component of pain (Pain Detect Questionnaire); symptom severity and functional impact of CTS (Boston CTS Assessment Test) were evaluated. Mixed-design ANOVAs and correlation analyses were used for data analysis. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. RESULTS Analysis of variance showed that there was no significant effect of side (affected versus unaffected) or group (CTS versus control group) on recognition accuracy or time. Significant group*site interactions were found for the two-point discrimination F (1,148) = 6.388, p = 0.013; and for handgrip strength F (1,148) = 17.552, p < 0.01. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between recognition accuracy and symptom duration and a significant positive correlation was found between recognition accuracy and handgrip strength in CTS patients (r = -0.267, p = 0.020; r = 0.290, p = 0.012). CONCLUSION CTS patients recognize the affected side as accurately and quickly as the unaffected side and control group. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between LRJT performance in the severely affected CTS group. GOV REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04967144 CLINICALTRIALS. GOV REGISTRATION DATE 19 July 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seniz Akcay
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Asli Koskderelioglu
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Neurology, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Bugra Ince
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Fikriye Elif Saka
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Eskut
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Neurology, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Altinay Goksel Karatepe
- University of Health Sciences, Izmir Bozyaka Education and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Izmir, Turkey.
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27
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Falsetti P, Conticini E, Baldi C, D’Ignazio E, Al Khayyat SG, Bardelli M, Gentileschi S, D’Alessandro R, D’Alessandro M, Acciai C, Ginanneschi F, Cantarini L, Frediani B. A Novel Ultrasonographic Anthropometric-Independent Measurement of Median Nerve Swelling in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The "Nerve/Tendon Ratio" (NTR). Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12112621. [PMID: 36359465 PMCID: PMC9689936 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is little consensus on ultrasound (US) normative values of cross-sectional area of median nerve (MN-CSA) in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) because of its dependency on anthropometric parameters. We aim to propose a novel anthropometric-independent US parameter: MN-CSA/flexor radialis carpi CSA (FCR-CSA) ratio (“Nerve Tendon Ratio”, NTR), in the diagnosis of clinically and electrodiagnostic (EDS)-defined CTS. Methods: 74 wrists of 49 patients with clinically defined CTS underwent EDS (scored by the 1−5 Padua Scale of electrophysiological severity, PS) and US of carpal tunnel with measurement of MN-CSA (at the carpal tunnel inlet), FCR-CSA (over scaphoid tubercle) and its ratio (NTR, expressed as a percentage). US normality values and intra-operator agreement were assessed in 33 healthy volunteers. Results: In controls, the mean MN-CSA was 5.81 mm2, NTR 64.2%. In 74 clinical CTS, the mean MN-CSA was 12.1 mm2, NTR 117%. In severe CTS (PS > 3), the mean MN-CSA was 15.9 mm2, NTR 148%. In CTS, both MN-CSA and NTR correlated with sensitive conduction velocity (SCV) (p < 0.001), distal motor latency (DML) (p < 0.001) and PS (p < 0.001), with a slight superiority of NTR vs. MN-CSA when controlled for height, wrist circumference and weight. In CTS filtered for anthropometric extremes, only NTR maintained a correlation with SCV (p = 0.023), DML (p = 0.016) and PS (p = 0.009). Diagnostic cut-offs were obtained with a binomial regression analysis. In those patients with a clinical diagnosis of CTS, the cut-off of MN-CSA (AUROC: 0.983) was 8 mm2 (9 mm2 with highest positive predictive value, PPV), while for NTR (AUROC: 0.987), the cut-off was 83% (100% with highest PPV). In patients with EDS findings of severe CTS (PS > 3), the MN-CSA (AUROC: 0.876) cut-off was 12.3 mm2 (15.3 mm2 with highest PPV), while for NTR (AUROC: 0.858) it was 116.2% (146.0% with highest PPV). Conclusions: NTR can be simply and quickly calculated, and it can be used in anthropometric extremes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Falsetti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Edoardo Conticini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Baldi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Emilio D’Ignazio
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Suhel Gabriele Al Khayyat
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Bardelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Gentileschi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto D’Alessandro
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Miriana D’Alessandro
- Unit of Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Acciai
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, San Donato Hospital, 52100 Arezzo, Italy
| | - Federica Ginanneschi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Cantarini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Bruno Frediani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Neurosciences, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Hong J, Wang X, Xue J, Li J, Zhang M, Mao W. Clinical Characteristics and Treatment of Adult Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Accompanied with Trigger Digit. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8104345. [PMID: 36267317 PMCID: PMC9578891 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8104345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the clinical characteristics and treatment of adult idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) accompanied with trigger digit. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on a total of 74 patients with adult idiopathic CTS accompanied with trigger digit admitted to and treated at the Hand Surgery Department of Ningbo No. 6 Hospital from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019. Data on patients' gender, age, occupation, course of the disease, menstruation, surgeries, examination-related information, complications, treatment methods, and prognoses during follow-up were recorded and subsequently used to analyze the pathogeneses, clinical characteristics, and treatment. Results A total of 74 patients (72 females and 2 males) were included. Among female patients, 51 were postmenopausal and 18 were non-postmenopausal. There were 101 fingers with trigger digit, including 14 patients with trigger digit in both hands, and 115 wrists affected by the CTS. The average course of CTS was 34.5 ± 49.3 months, and that of trigger digit was 10.5 ± 22.4 months. Seventy had both trigger digit and CTS in one hand, while among patients with both hands involved, only 4 had trigger digit or CTS in one hand. Eighty-nine fingers underwent A1 pulley release, and 104 hands underwent carpal tunnel surgery, with steroids being injected under the adventitia of the median nerve during the surgery. All patients who underwent surgeries had I/A-healed incisions, and 14 of them had obvious synovial hyperplasia observed in the carpal tunnel and flexor tendon sheath during surgeries. Follow-up visits, which lasted 3 to 35 months, had an average duration of 1.34 years and included 72 patients. In 63 patients (63/72), the syndrome of tenosynovitis and numbness disappeared and normal hand functions were restored; in 6 patients, the numbness in hands greatly improved and normal hand functions were almost completely restored, while no improvement in numbness of hands and limited hand functions were still observed in 3 patients. Conclusion CTS accompanied with trigger digit was more common in postmenopausal females, and the course of CTS was longer than that of trigger digit. CTS and trigger digit were more likely to simultaneously occur in the same hand, while some patients might not have obvious synovial hyperplasia in the carpal tunnel. Surgeries were effective in severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjiong Hong
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
| | - Jianbo Xue
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
| | - Jimin Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
| | - Minghua Zhang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
| | - Weisheng Mao
- Department of Hand Surgery, Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, China
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Belka M, Koziej M, Trybus M, Fijałkowska M, Banach M. The adaptation of Polish version of Six-Item Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms Scale. J Orthop Sci 2022; 27:1039-1043. [PMID: 34340906 DOI: 10.1016/j.jos.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common peripheral neuropathy. The diagnosis could be made by taking the medical history from a patient or by physical examination or by performing electroneurography. The aims of the study were (1) to translate and adaptate the Polish version of the Six-Item Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms Scale (CTS-6 SS) and (2) to analyse the associations between different Patients-Reported Outcome Measures and nerve conduction studies (NCS). METHODS One-hundred and fifty patients consistent with inclusion criteria filled the CTS-6 SS, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and the Hand (DASH) and Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) during their first visit to the clinic. Then, they had the NCS done. After two weeks, 99 patients filled the CTS-6 SS for the second time. RESULTS The Polish version of CTS-6 SS revealed good psychometric properties: high values of internal consistency, test-retest reliability and validity. The construct validity showed strong correlation with BCTQ - R = 0.87 (p < 0.05) for Symptoms Severity Scale (SSS) and R = 0.64 (p < 0.05) Functional Status Scale (FSS). Additionally CTS-6 SS has at least moderate correlation with DASH R = 0.53 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The Polish version of translated scale was adapted and used together with NCS complete the overall picture of patients suffering from CTS. STUDY DESIGN Prospective study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Belka
- 2nd Department of General Surgery, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mateusz Koziej
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Marek Trybus
- 2nd Department of General Surgery, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marta Fijałkowska
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Second Chair of Surgery Medical University of Lodz, Poland
| | - Marta Banach
- Department of Neurology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
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Wu H, Yang K, Chang X, Liu Z, Ding Z, Liang W, Xu J, Dong F. Evaluation of the Transverse Carpal Ligament in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by Shear Wave Elastography: A Non-Invasive Approach of Diagnosis and Management. Front Neurol 2022; 13:901104. [PMID: 35847227 PMCID: PMC9283864 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.901104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesThe goal of this work is to determine the clinical value of the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) for guiding subsequent treatment.MethodsThis study analyzed patients who underwent median nerve (MN) ultrasound (US) examination of the wrist from April 2020 to April 2021. The cross-sectional area and anteroposterior diameter of the MN, as well as the TCL thickness and stiffness, were measured from images. The intra-group and intra-patient subgroup differences were compared using a t-test and a rank test. We also utilized receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to diagnose CTS and evaluate the severity.ResultsThe final cohort consisted of 120 wrists (bilateral) from 60 samples, evenly balanced across the patient and control groups according to their CTS diagnosis. In the unilateral positive patient subgroup, the MN and TCL of the positive hand were significantly thicker and stiffer than the negative counterparts (both, p < 0.05). The values from the right were also thicker and stiffer than the left (both, p < 0.05) in patients with bilateral CTS. The MN and TCL of the patient group were also significantly thicker and stiffer than those of the control group (both, p < 0.001). For diagnosing CTS, the area under the curve (AUC) of TCL thickness and stiffness at the distal carpal tunnel (DCT) ranged between 0.925 and 0.967. For evaluating CTS severity, we found that the optimal TCL stiffness is sufficient for diagnosing mild and non-mild patient cases (AUC: Emean = 0.757, Emax = 0.779).ConclusionsShear wave elastography is therefore an effective method for CTS diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaiyu Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Keen Yang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Chang
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhaokang Liu
- Department of Hand and Micro-Vascular Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhimin Ding
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiyu Liang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinfeng Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Jinfeng Xu
| | - Fajin Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen People's Hospital, First Clinical College of Jinan University, Second Clinical College of Jinan University, First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Fajin Dong
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Di Stefano V, Fava A, Gentile L, Guaraldi P, Leonardi L, Poli L, Tagliapietra M, Vastola M, Fanara S, Ferrero B, Giorgi M, Perfetto F, Russo M, Russo D. Italian Real-Life Experience of Patients with Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis Treated with Patisiran. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2022; 15:499-514. [PMID: 35592550 PMCID: PMC9113125 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s359851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) is a multisystemic, rare, inherited, progressive and adult-onset disease, affecting the sensorimotor nerves, heart, autonomic function and other organs. The actual scenario of pharmaceutical approaches for ATTRv amyloidosis includes five main groups: TTR stabilizers, TTR mRNA silencers, TTR fibril disruptors, inhibitor of TTR fibril seeding and gene therapy. Patisiran is a small, double-stranded interfering RNA encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle, able to penetrate into hepatocytes, where it selectively targets TTR mRNA, reducing TTR production. We report and discuss 9 cases of different patients with ATTRv amyloidosis successfully managed with patisiran in the real clinical practice. Literature data, as well as the above presented case reports, show that this drug is effective and safe in improving both neurological and cardiovascular symptoms of ATTRv amyloidosis, and to maintain a good QoL, independently form the stage of the disease and the involved mutation. Recent studies correlated improved functional and biochemical outcomes with a regression of amyloid burden, especially at the cardiac level. Today, patisiran can be considered a valid therapeutic option for the management of patients with ATTRv amyloidosis and polyneuropathy and cardiovascular symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: Vincenzo Di Stefano, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo Palermo, Italy, Via del Vespro 143, Palermo, 90127, Italy, Tel +39 3285781786, Fax +390916552974, Email
| | - Antonella Fava
- Division of Cardiology, Heart Vascular and Thoracic Department, Città della Salute e della Scienza (Molinette Hospital- University of Turin), Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Gentile
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Pietro Guaraldi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Leonardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome Sant’Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Loris Poli
- Department of Neurology, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Matteo Tagliapietra
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Vastola
- Tuscan Regional Amyloidosis Centre, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Neurosciences Department, Florence University, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Fanara
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Bruno Ferrero
- SC Neurology 2U, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, Città della Salute e della Scienza (Molinette Hospital -University of Turin), Turin, Italy
| | - Mauro Giorgi
- Division of Cardiology, Heart Vascular and Thoracic Department, Città della Salute e della Scienza (Molinette Hospital- University of Turin), Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Perfetto
- Tuscan Regional Amyloidosis Centre, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Massimo Russo
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Domitilla Russo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, St. Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Local Corticosteroid Injections versus Surgical Carpal Tunnel Release for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040533. [PMID: 35455023 PMCID: PMC9026554 DOI: 10.3390/life12040533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy. This meta-analysis compared local steroid injections (LSIs) versus carpal tunnel release (CTR) for the management of CTS. Neurophysiological parameters, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and the complication rate were investigated. We hypothesized that LSIs may represent an effective and safe alternative to surgical management. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA statement. All the clinical investigations comparing LSIs versus CTR for carpal tunnel syndrome were accessed. In March 2022, the following databases were accessed: Pubmed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase. No time constrains were used for the search. The risk of bias and statistical analyses were conducted using the Review Manager Software 5.3 (The Nordic Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen). Results: Data from 1096 procedures were retrieved. The mean follow-up was 12.3 (1 to 58) months. The mean age of the patients was 51.1 ± 4.6. Nocturnal paraesthesia (p < 0.0001) and visual analogue scale (p < 0.0001) were greater in the LSIs cohort. No difference was found in the functional (p = 0.2) and symptom (p = 0.4) subscales of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), median nerve distal motor latency (p = 0.9), median nerve motor amplitude (p = 0.7), median nerve sensory conduction velocity (p = 0.4), or median nerve sensory amplitude (p = 0.3). No difference was found in terms of minor complications (p = 0.9). No major complications were observed within the duration of follow-up. Conclusion: Both CTR and LSIs were effective and feasible in reducing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Though LSIs led to greater pain relief, this superiority was not permanent. Irrespective of the severity of the symptoms, current evidence suggests that a cycle of LSIs may be considered in patients with CTS. However, patients must be aware that LSIs may not be the definitive therapy, and CTR should be recommended.
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Peris Moya A, Pérez Mármol JM, Khoury Martín EF, García Ríos MC. Ultrasound improves motor distal latency on patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2022; 58:206-217. [PMID: 34918889 PMCID: PMC9980503 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.21.07021-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Is the application of ultrasound effective on pain, the severity of the symptoms, physical function, strength, and neurophysiological parameters of the median nerve conduction in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome? EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was performed by using a structured search strategy in Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and PEDro databases. All the primary studies included samples with carpal tunnel syndrome treated by: ultrasound versus no treatment, therapeutic ultrasound versus sham ultrasound, ultrasound and usual care versus usual care, or ultrasound and other intervention versus the same intervention. The outcomes measures registered were pain, severity of symptoms, function, strength, and neurophysiological parameters (motor distal latency and sensory distal latency) of the median nerve. Methodological quality was evaluated by PEdro Scale. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Ten clinical trials met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Eight trials were meta-analyzed, which included a total of 2069 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The methodological quality of the included studies ranged among limited (5 trials), moderate (3 trials), and high (2 trials). In one of the electrophysiological parameters (motor distal latency), a significant difference between groups after the use of ultrasound was observed (MD=-0.10; fixed 95% CI=-0.20, -0.01; P=0.04). No significant differences between groups were observed at post-treatment for pain (P=0.29), severity of symptoms (P=0.99), function (P=0.54), strength (P=0.27) and for the rest of the electrophysiological parameters evaluated (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS The use of ultrasound on patients with carpal tunnel syndrome seems to improve motor distal latency. This finding implies a partial improvement at the neurophysiological level, representing a reduction in the grade of clinical severity. Additional clinical trials with a high methodological quality are needed to investigate the doses at which ultrasound are most effective.
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Sasaki T, Koyama T, Kuroiwa T, Nimura A, Okawa A, Wakabayashi Y, Fujita K. Evaluation of the Existing Electrophysiological Severity Classifications in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061685. [PMID: 35330012 PMCID: PMC8950957 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrophysiological examination is important for the diagnosis and evaluation of nerve function in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Electrophysiological severity classifications of CTS using a nerve conduction study (NCS) have been reported, and there are many reports on the relationship between severity classifications and clinical symptoms. The existing electrophysiological severity classifications have several problems, such as cases that do not fit into a classification and unclear reasons for the boundary value. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between sensory nerve conduction velocity (SCV) and distal motor latency (DML) and to evaluate whether the existing severity classification method is appropriate. We created a scatter diagram between SCV and DML for our NCSs and found a negative correlation between SCV and DML (correlation coefficient, −0.786). When we applied our NCSs to the existing classifications (Padua and Bland classifications), there were many unclassifiable cases (15.2%; Padua classification), and the number of Grade 3 cases was significantly higher than that of Grade 2 or 4 cases (Bland classification). Our large dataset revealed a strong negative correlation between SCV and DML, indicating that the existing severity classifications do not always accurately reflect the severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Sasaki
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (T.K.); (A.O.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tsuchiura Kyodo General Hospital, 4-1-1, Tsuchiura 300-0028, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takafumi Koyama
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (T.K.); (A.O.)
| | - Tomoyuki Kuroiwa
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (T.K.); (A.O.)
| | - Akimoto Nimura
- Department of Functional Joint Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan;
| | - Atsushi Okawa
- Department of Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (T.K.); (A.O.)
| | - Yoshiaki Wakabayashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yokohama City Minato Red Cross Hospital, 3-12-1, Shinyamashita, Naka-ku, Yokohama City 231-8682, Kanagawa, Japan;
| | - Koji Fujita
- Department of Functional Joint Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-5803-5279
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ÖTEN E. The efficacy of ultrasound and low-intensity laser therapy in carpal tunnel syndrome. JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.32322/jhsm.1054837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Öten E, Uğur L. 3D volumetric evaluation of the diagnosis and severity of carpal tunnel syndrome using MRI. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 97:82-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Mathew MM, Gaur R, Gonnade N, Asthana SS, Ghuleliya R. Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Particulate Versus Nonparticulate Steroid Injection in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An Open-Label Randomized Control Trial. Cureus 2022; 14:e21591. [PMID: 35228949 PMCID: PMC8873394 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Perineural corticosteroid injection is an extensively used and accepted treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, to this date, there is no guideline as to which corticosteroid has to be used as the standard treatment for CTS. Triamcinolone acetonide is a commonly used particulate steroid that can cause permanent nerve injury if it is accidentally injected into the nerve. Conversely, dexamethasone sodium phosphate is a nonparticulate steroid that would not cause permanent nerve damage following accidental injection. Methods Mild to moderate cases of CTS, confirmed by nerve conduction studies (NCS), with symptoms greater than three months were recruited. The participants received one session of ultrasound-guided perineural injection by the in-plane axial ulnar-sided approach with 4 mL of either dexamethasone (dexamethasone sodium phosphate 8 mg (2 mL) + 2 mL 0.5% bupivacaine) or triamcinolone (triamcinolone acetonide 40 mg/mL (1 mL) + 2 mL 0.5% bupivacaine + 1 mL normal saline) solution. The parameters assessed were Phalen’s test time (in seconds), visual analog scale (VAS), and Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire (BCTQ) scores at baseline and two and four months, and NCS changes in sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV) and distal motor latency (DML) of the median nerve at baseline and four months. Statistical analysis was conducted using the software SPSS version 26.0 (IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA). Independent samples t-test was used for comparison between groups and the paired t-test for improvement within each group. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results The mean age was 42.64 ± 10.99 in the dexamethasone and 45.22 ± 10.602 in the triamcinolone group cases (P = 0.324).There were 58 females (84.06%) and 11 males (15.94%). Each of Phalen’s test time, VAS, and BCTQ scores significantly improved within both dexamethasone and triamcinolone groups at the second and fourth months after injection (P < 0.05). The NCS parameters (SNCV and DML) also significantly improved in both groups at the fourth month after the injection (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the improvement of Phalen’s test time between the two groups (P = 0.745), VAS score (P = 0.319), BCTQ score (P = 0.137), SNCV (P = 0.511), or DML (P = 0.753). Postprocedural pain lasted significantly longer in the triamcinolone group (P < 0.05). No major complications were noted in either of the two groups. Conclusion Dexamethasone is as effective as triamcinolone in improving the symptoms of CTS and can be used as a safer and more effective alternative in the treatment of mild to moderate CTS cases.
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Meyers A, Annunziata MJ, Rampazzo A, Bassiri Gharb B. A Systematic Review of the Outcomes of Carpal Ligament Release in Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. J Hand Surg Am 2022; 48:408.e1-408.e18. [PMID: 35058091 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Indications for surgical treatment of severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) are controversial. The aim of this study was to review the outcomes reported in the literature of carpal tunnel release in patients with severe CTS. METHODS A systematic review of the outcomes of carpal tunnel release in patients with severe CTS was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Outcome measures included change in symptoms, sensation (2-point discrimination, light touch), thenar atrophy, strength (power and pinch grip), electrophysiology, median nerve morphology, and patient-reported outcome measures. Outcomes are reported by ranges of the percentage of patients/hands improved in the included studies. RESULTS Thirty-eight papers were selected, representing 2,531 patients and 2,712 hands. Demographic information on age and sex were available for a total of 1,542 patients. Mean age ranged from 49.8 to 83 years and 72% were female. All studies that assessed patient-reported outcome measures before and after surgery reported significant improvements. Complete resolution of paresthesia occurred in 55%-98% of hands across different studies. Resolution of numbness occurred in between 39% and 94% of hands. Pain completely resolved in 64%-100% and weakness in 60%-75% of hands. Two-point discrimination and light touch improved postoperatively. Power grip, key, tripod, index-thumb pulp pinch, and thumb opposition increased. Motor and sensory amplitudes, distal motor latencies, and sensory conduction velocities improved. Patient-reported outcomes indicated symptomatic improvement and reduced disability. CONCLUSIONS Symptomatic improvement following carpal tunnel release in patients with severe CTS can occur. Patients should be counseled about the unpredictability of the outcomes and factors that might affect outcomes. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Meyers
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
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Expert consensus on the combined investigation of carpal tunnel syndrome with electrodiagnostic tests and neuromuscular ultrasound. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 135:107-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Wang Q, Chu H, Wang H, Jin Y, Zhao X, Weng C, Lu Z. Ring finger sensory latency difference in the diagnosis and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. BMC Neurol 2021; 21:432. [PMID: 34740330 PMCID: PMC8570028 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02462-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the sensitivity of median and ulnar nerve sensory latency differences in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) at different severities. Methods CTS patients were divided into three groups based on disease severity (mild, moderate, and severe). Distal latency of sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) for the median and ulnar nerves was recorded. The sensitivity of SNAP distal latency to CTS and its correlation with CTS severity were analyzed. Results Significant differences were found in the median nerve sensory action potential distal latency (MSDL) and in the median and ulnar sensory latency difference to ring finger (MUD) but not in the ulnar nerve sensory action potential distal latency (USDL) between CTS and control. The sensitivity and specificity were 92.2 and 99.4% with an MSDL cutoff value of 2.40 ms, respectively, and were both 100% with a MUD cutoff value of 0.33 ms. There was no significant difference in USDL among the CTS and control groups. Significant differences were found in MSDL and MUD among the CTS severities and between mild and moderate CTS, but not between mild and severe CTS or between moderate and severe CTS. Correlations with CTS severity were observed for MSDL and MUD but not for USDL. Conclusion The ulnar nerve of the CTS patients was not damaged. A smaller MSDL reflected median nerve damage, which can be used for the early diagnosis of CTS. MUD correlated with CTS severity with a higher sensitivity than MSDL, which can provide therapeutic insight without pain to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingping Wang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Hong Chu
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Yan Jin
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Xiaoquan Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Chao Weng
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Zuneng Lu
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei Province, PR China.
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Saba EKA. Association between carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger: a clinical and electrophysiological study. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43166-021-00080-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevalent mononeuropathy. Trigger finger is a flexor stenosing tenosynovitis. The aim of the study was to assess the concomitant occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger in the same hand among patients presented with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome or idiopathic trigger finger. The study included 110 hands (75 patients) presented with carpal tunnel syndrome or trigger finger and 60 asymptomatic hands (46 apparently healthy individuals). Clinical assessment and neurophysiological evaluation were done.
Results
Regarding the presenting clinical complaints, there were 76 hands (69.1%) from 48 patients (64.0%) presented with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome. There 34 hands (30.9%) from 27 patients (36.0%) presented with idiopathic trigger finger. Classification of the patients into three groups depending on the final diagnosis: (I) carpal tunnel syndrome group, 57 hands (51.8%) with only carpal tunnel syndrome from 36 patients (48.0%); (II) trigger finger group, 25 hands (22.7%) with only trigger finger from 22 patients (29.3%); and (III) carpal tunnel syndrome with trigger finger group, 28 hands (25.5%) with both conditions from 24 patients (32.0%); and among them, seven patients had contralateral hand carpal tunnel syndrome only. The duration of complaints among the carpal tunnel syndrome with trigger finger group was significantly shorter than that in the other two groups. There were statistically significantly higher values of patient global assessment of hand symptoms and effect of hand symptoms on function and quality of life among the carpal tunnel syndrome with trigger finger group versus the other two groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the carpal tunnel syndrome with trigger finger group versus the carpal tunnel syndrome group regarding different classes of the Padua neurophysiological classification scale. The most common digit to have trigger finger was the middle finger in 19 hands (35.8%).
Conclusions
The concurrent presentation of idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome and idiopathic trigger finger in the same hand is common. Each of them could be associated with the other one. The symptoms of one of them usually predominate the patient’s complaints. The identification of this association is essential for proper diagnosis and comprehensive management of patients presented with these conditions.
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Patel K, Horak HA. Electrodiagnosis of Common Mononeuropathies: Median, Ulnar, and Fibular (Peroneal) Neuropathies. Neurol Clin 2021; 39:939-955. [PMID: 34602220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This article addresses common mononeuropathies seen in the electrodiagnostic laboratory. The most common mononeuropathies-median neuropathy at the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), ulnar neuropathy at the elbow, and fibular (peroneal) neuropathy at the fibular head-are reviewed. The causes, clinical presentations, approached to the electrodiagnostic studies (including nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography), and the typical findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Patel
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Boulevard, JSA 9.128, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Holli A Horak
- University of Arizona College of Medicine- Tucson, 1501 North Campbell Avenue, Room 6212a, Tucson, AZ 87524, USA.
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43
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Pastorelli F, Fabbri G, Rapezzi C, Serenelli M, Plasmati R, Vacchiano V, Ferlini A, Manfrini M, Salvi F. Neurological involvement in Ile68Leu (p.Ile88Leu) ATTR amyloidosis: not only a cardiogenic mutation. Amyloid 2021; 28:173-181. [PMID: 34047656 DOI: 10.1080/13506129.2021.1917357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ile68Leu transthyretin-related amyloidosis (ATTR) is known as a mainly or exclusively cardiogenic variant. We hypothesized that an accurate specialized neurological evaluation could reveal a consistent frequency of mixed phenotypes. METHODS Forty-six consecutive subjects with transthyretin (TTR) Ile68Leu (p.Ile88Leu) mutation (29 patients and 17 unaffected carriers) underwent an in-depth cardiac and neurologic evaluation at a single center. RESULTS All 29 patients showed cardiac involvement. In 20 (69%) cases, it was associated with neurological abnormalities (i.e. a mixed phenotype): 10 (35% of the total) had signs and symptoms of neuropathy, 5 (17%) had abnormalities at the neurologic specialist examination but without symptoms, and 5 (17%) had abnormal nerve conduction study only. None of the asymptomatic carriers showed neurological abnormalities or cardiac involvement. The Neuropathy Impairment Score was > 5 in seven patients at baseline, and became >5 in six more patients during follow-up. The probability of experiencing a major adverse cardiac event (MACE) during follow-up was higher in the mixed than cardiologic phenotype (p = 0.026). Age and phenotype were independent prognostic predictors of MACE. CONCLUSION At least two-thirds of patients with Ile68Leu ATTR and amyloidotic cardiomyopathy show an associated - definite or probable - neurologic impairment of variable degree if accurately evaluated in a neurologic setting. This proportion can rise during follow-up. The mixed phenotype carries a worse prognosis compared to the exclusively cardiologic one. These observations show that more patients could be eligible for treatment with gene silencers than currently indicated and highlight the need for an in-depth and continuous multidisciplinary evaluation of Ile68Leu ATTR patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gioele Fabbri
- Cardiologic Center, University of Ferrara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Cona, Italy
| | - Claudio Rapezzi
- Cardiologic Center, University of Ferrara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Cona, Italy.,Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Matteo Serenelli
- Cardiologic Center, University of Ferrara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Cona, Italy
| | - Rosaria Plasmati
- UOC Neurologia, IRCCS Scienze Neurologiche, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Veria Vacchiano
- UOC Neurologia, IRCCS Scienze Neurologiche, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferlini
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Diagnostic and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Manfrini
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Salvi
- UOC Neurologia, IRCCS Scienze Neurologiche, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Centro 'il Bene', IRCCS Scienze Neurologiche, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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44
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Machine learning-based approach for disease severity classification of carpal tunnel syndrome. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17464. [PMID: 34465860 PMCID: PMC8408248 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97043-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is essential to providing appropriate therapeutic interventions. We developed and validated machine-learning (ML) models for classifying CTS severity. Here, 1037 CTS hands with 11 variables each were retrospectively analyzed. CTS was confirmed using electrodiagnosis, and its severity was classified into three grades: mild, moderate, and severe. The dataset was randomly split into a training (70%) and test (30%) set. A total of 507 mild, 276 moderate, and 254 severe CTS hands were included. Extreme gradient boosting (XGB) showed the highest external validation accuracy in the multi-class classification at 76.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 71.2–81.5). XGB also had an optimal model training accuracy of 76.1%. Random forest (RF) and k-nearest neighbors had the second-highest external validation accuracy of 75.6% (95% CI 70.0–80.5). For the RF and XGB models, the numeric rating scale of pain was the most important variable, and body mass index was the second most important. The one-versus-rest classification yielded improved external validation accuracies for each severity grade compared with the multi-class classification (mild, 83.6%; moderate, 78.8%; severe, 90.9%). The CTS severity classification based on the ML model was validated and is readily applicable to aiding clinical evaluations.
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45
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Bozkurt M, Tatar BE, Karakol P, Sezgiç M, Uslu C, Solak HT, Gelbal C. Matriderm and platelet-rich plasma combination in the treatment of recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome: a new approach. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00238-021-01863-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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46
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Schulze DG, Nilsen KB, Killingmo RM, Zwart JA, Grotle M. Clinical Utility of the 6-Item CTS, Boston-CTS, and Hand-Diagram for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Front Neurol 2021; 12:683807. [PMID: 34385969 PMCID: PMC8353366 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.683807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Self-reported measures are often used in research and clinical practice to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and guide therapeutic choices. We aimed to assess the clinical utility of the Norwegian versions of two self-reported outcome measures for symptom severity assessment, the 6-item CTS (CTS-6), and Boston-CTS (BCTQ), and of one diagnostic measure, the hand-diagram, by evaluating measurement properties including discriminative ability for severity assessment (CTS-6, BCTQ), and diagnosis of CTS (hand-diagram). Methods: We performed forward and backward translation and cultural adaptation of the Norwegian CTS-6 and BCTQ. Following COSMIN guidelines, we investigated internal consistency, reliability, construct validity, and discriminative ability for distinguishing between severity levels of CTS in patients with confirmed CTS for the CTS-6 and BCTQ and reliability and discriminative ability for diagnosing CTS for the hand-diagram. Results: Two hundred and fifty-one patients referred for diagnostic work-up for CTS with nerve conduction studies (NCS) participated. The CTS-6 and BCTQ had acceptable internal consistency (Crohnbach's α = 0.82 and 0.86, respectively), reliability (ICC = 0.86 and 0.90; SEM = 0.24 and 0.20; SDC95% = 0.68 and 0.55, respectively), construct validity (all eight pre-defined hypotheses confirmed) and discriminative ability to distinguish between severity levels of CTS [Area under the curve (AUC) = 0.75, 95% CI 0.64–0.85]. The hand-diagram had acceptable reliability (Cohen's kappa = 0.69) and discriminative ability to diagnose CTS (sensitivity = 0.72, specificity = 0.90). Conclusion: Our findings support the clinical utility of the CTS-6 and BCTQ for symptom severity assessment and of the hand-diagram for diagnostic screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gregor Schulze
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristian Bernhard Nilsen
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - John Anker Zwart
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Margreth Grotle
- Department of Research, Innovation and Education, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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47
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Spina E, Doneddu PE, Liberatore G, Cocito D, Fazio R, Briani C, Filosto M, Benedetti L, Antonini G, Cosentino G, Jann S, Mazzeo A, Cortese A, Marfia GA, Clerici AM, Siciliano G, Carpo M, Luigetti M, Lauria G, Rosso T, Cavaletti G, Peci E, Tronci S, Ruiz M, Piccinelli SC, Schenone A, Leonardi L, Gentile L, Piccolo L, Mataluni G, Santoro L, Nobile-Orazio E, Manganelli F. Prolonged distal motor latency of median nerve does not improve diagnostic accuracy for CIDP. J Neurol 2021; 269:907-912. [PMID: 34173874 PMCID: PMC8782796 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10672-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Compression of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel can give demyelinating features and result in distal motor latency (DML) prolongation fulfilling the EFNS/PNS demyelinating criteria for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Accordingly, being carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) common in the general population, the EFNS/PNS guidelines recommend excluding the DML of the median nerve when DML prolongation may be consistent with median neuropathy at the wrist from CTS. The main aims of this study were to verify whether the inclusion of DML of the median nerve (when consistent with CTS) could improve electrophysiological diagnostic accuracy for CIDP and if the median nerve at the carpal tunnel was more prone to demyelination. We analyzed electrophysiological data from 499 patients included consecutively into the Italian CIDP Database. According to the EFNS/PNS criteria, 352 patients had a definite, 10 a probable, and 57 a possible diagnosis of CIDP, while 80 were not fulfilling the diagnostic criteria. The inclusion of DML prolongation of median nerve did not improve significantly the diagnostic accuracy for CIDP; overall diagnostic class changed in 6 out of 499 patients (1.2%) and electrodiagnostic class of CIDP changed from not fulfilling to possible in only 2 patients (2.5% of not-fulfilling patients). In conclusion, we can infer that excluding DML prolongation of median nerve does not increase the risk of missing a diagnosis of CIDP thus corroborating the current EFNS/PNS criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Spina
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 81025, Naples, Italy.
| | - Pietro Emiliano Doneddu
- Neuromuscular and Neuroimmunology Service, IRCCS Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Liberatore
- Neuromuscular and Neuroimmunology Service, IRCCS Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Cocito
- Presidio Sanitario Major, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Turin, Italy
| | - Raffaella Fazio
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology Unit, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Filosto
- Center for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, Unit of Neurology, ASST 'Spedali Civili', University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luana Benedetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Unit of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, 'Sapienza' University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cosentino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Jann
- Department of Neuroscience, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Mazzeo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Cortese
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Molecular Neurosciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Girolama Alessandra Marfia
- Dysimmune Neuropathies Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Maurizio Clerici
- Neurology Unit, Circolo and Macchi Foundation Hospital, Insubria University, DBSV, Varese, Italy
| | - Gabriele Siciliano
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marinella Carpo
- Neurology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest-Ospedale Treviglio, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Unit of Neuroalgology, IRCCS Foundation 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences 'Luigi Sacco', University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rosso
- ULSS2 Marca Trevigiana, UOC Neurologia-Castelfranco Veneto, Treviso, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- School of Medicine and Surgery and Experimental Neurology Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Erdita Peci
- Presidio Sanitario Major, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Turin, Italy
| | - Stefano Tronci
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Ruiz
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology Unit, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Cotti Piccinelli
- Center for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, Unit of Neurology, ASST 'Spedali Civili', University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Angelo Schenone
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Leonardi
- Unit of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, 'Sapienza' University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Gentile
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giorgia Mataluni
- Dysimmune Neuropathies Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucio Santoro
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 81025, Naples, Italy
| | - Eduardo Nobile-Orazio
- Neuromuscular and Neuroimmunology Service, IRCCS Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Milan University, Milan, Italy
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 81025, Naples, Italy
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Martikkala L, Mäkelä K, Himanen SL. Reduction in median nerve cross-sectional area at the forearm correlates with axon loss in carpal tunnel syndrome. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2021; 6:209-214. [PMID: 34377874 PMCID: PMC8327490 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The median nerve CSA at the forearm is smaller when CTS is involved with axon loss. WFR of the median nerve is highest when CTS causes slight axon loss. Axon loss of the median nerve in CTS hampers the diagnostic value of wCSA and WFR.
Objective To explore the relationship between axon loss and measured cross-sectional areas of the median nerve (MN) in severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods In this retrospective study of 158 examined wrists, we compared axon loss to the ultrasound parameters MN cross-sectional area at the wrist (wCSA), MN cross-sectional area at the forearm (fCSA) and wrist-to-forearm ratio (WFR), in patients with moderate to extreme CTS. Axon loss was evaluated by needle electromyography (EMG) of the abductor pollicis brevis muscle (spontaneous activity and reduction of interference pattern). Results Both the spontaneous activity and interference pattern reduction correlated negatively to fCSA (r = −0.189, p = 0.035; r = −0.210, p = 0.019; respectively). In moderate CTS, both the spontaneous activity and interference pattern reduction correlated positively to WFR (r = 0.231, p = 0.048; r = 0.232, p = 0.047; respectively). The WFR was highest when slight spontaneous activity was detected. Neither wCSA nor WFR correlated with axon loss in severe and extreme CTS. Conclusions The fCSA is smaller when axon loss in CTS is more prominent. The WFR is highest when CTS is associated with slight axon loss of the MN. Significance CTS might cause retrograde axonal atrophy detected as small fCSA. Prominent axon loss in CTS may reduce the diagnostic value of WFR.
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Key Words
- APB, abductor pollicis brevis
- CTS, carpal tunnel syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- EDX, electrodiagnostic studies
- EMG, needle electromyography
- HRUS, high-resolution ultrasound
- IP, interference pattern
- MN, median nerve
- NCS, nerve conduction studies
- Needle electromyography
- RAA, retrograde axonal atrophy
- Retrograde axonal atrophy
- Ultrasound
- WFR, wrist-to-forearm ratio
- fCSA, median nerve cross-sectional area at the forearm
- wCSA, median nerve cross-sectional area at the wrist
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri Martikkala
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Medical Imaging Centre and Hospital Pharmacy, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Katri Mäkelä
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Medical Imaging Centre and Hospital Pharmacy, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sari-Leena Himanen
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Medical Imaging Centre and Hospital Pharmacy, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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49
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Mendoza-Pulido C, Ortiz-Corredor F. Measurement properties of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire in subjects with neurophysiological confirmation of carpal tunnel syndrome: a Rasch analysis perspective. Qual Life Res 2021; 30:2697-2710. [PMID: 33961186 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02860-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To perform a comprehensive psychometric analysis of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) by means of factor and Rasch analyses in subjects with neurophysiologic confirmation of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Relationship between clinical severity assessed with the log-linear version of the BCTQ and neurophysiologic severity assessed with nerve conduction studies was further examined. METHODS Five hundred and twenty-eight individuals completed the questionnaire. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were used to determine the latent structure of the BCTQ. Through Rasch methodology, a log-linear version was proposed given the latent structure of the questionnaire. Linear relationship between the proposed questionnaire and neurophysiologic findings was established. RESULTS The BCTQ underlying structure comprises, at least, three factors that may be represented by Functionality, Paresthesia and Pain domains. Two log-linear subscales may be proposed: subscale 1 comprised of the Functionality factor and subscale 2 which incorporates the Paresthesia and Pain factors under a bifactor solution. Neurophysiologic and clinical severity classification system displays a very weak linear correlation. CONCLUSION A log-linear version of the BCTQ, useful as an outcome tool in clinical and trial settings, is proposed. Neurophysiological data lack the ability to resemble changes in clinical status of individuals with CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Mendoza-Pulido
- School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogota, Bogota, Colombia.
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Instituto Roosevelt, Bogota, Colombia.
| | - Fernando Ortiz-Corredor
- School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogota, Bogota, Colombia
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Instituto Roosevelt, Bogota, Colombia
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50
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Wee TC, Simon NG. Asymptomatic common extensor tendon pathology in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:64-69. [PMID: 33847378 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and lateral epicondylitis are both highly prevalent conditions. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of B-mode ultrasound abnormalities of the common extensor tendon (CET) in patients with CTS and establish the relationship between CET stiffness, as measured by shear wave elastography (SWE) and CTS severity. METHODS Patients without symptoms or signs of lateral epicondylitis were recruited from referrals to a neurophysiology laboratory for possible CTS. These patients were examined for clinical features of CTS before undergoing electrodiagnostic testing followed by an ultrasound examination, consisting of B-mode, power Doppler, and SWE. RESULTS Thirty-nine limbs with clinically diagnosed CTS and 20 control limbs were included. Of the CTS limbs, 61.5% had sonographically abnormal CET compared with 35% of the controls. The mean CET sonographic abnormality score was higher in CTS patients compared with controls (P = .006). CTS patients with sonographically abnormal CET had more severe CTS by electrophysiological criteria. The mean CET stiffness in CTS patients was lower than in controls (P = .033). DISCUSSION Sonographic abnormalities of the CET are common in CTS patients with no clinical evidence of lateral epicondylitis and may relate to common pathogenetic mechanisms. These findings suggest that isolated ultrasound abnormalities in the CET are not diagnostically useful in patients presenting with upper limb pain unless there are clinical features of lateral epicondylitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze Chao Wee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
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